Alexandrite: Gemstones From the Bible

Alexandrite comes out of the Bible under a different name, but is ranked in value today with the "top four" in the highest quality of these stones. The big four: diamond (diamonds are a jeweler's best friend); ruby; sapphire; and emerald -- also have this expensive comrade, most of which better ones today come from Russia.

The Bible knows it as "chrysoberyl," and it is found in Revelation 21 [KJV has "chrysoprase"], for use in describing the glorified New Jerusalem, which is coming down out of heaven to earth. This is the resurrection of all the saints, describing collectively their unveiled (the meaning of the Book's title) glory in the resurrection. This stone is perfect for describing the resurrection glory of the saints since like them, it changes color in refractive "flickers" as one changes the angle from which it is viewed -- like a mobile rainbow.

This is the meaning of Joseph's "coat of many colors," and the rainbow of mercy in Noah's day. These are the "priestly [and, er, "kingly"] robes" of righteousness in the Book of Revelation at the beginning.

Here is a brief post from the Mineral Zone on this "chameleon stone," a portable rainbow in your hand:

"This is a variety of chrysoberyl, like cat's eye, distinguished by a play. of colours which has earned it the name of "chameleon stone". Its natural colour ranges from dark to pale green, but in the light may appear anything from red to yellow, to orange, to mauve even, depending on how the rays strike it. It is a very attractive stone, but rare and therefore very costly, and only the top quality is worth buying.

It is, however, an excellent investment because it is much prized by jewelers and collectors. Pure alexandrite is always faceted, or cut en cabochon if flaws are present (in this case be careful not to confuse it with other "chameleon" chrysoberyls or labradorite).

Its value is on a par with the four precious stones and when well set is a match for even the finest diamond. The best specimens come from Russia, but it is also found in Ceylon, Burma, Brazil, Madagascar and the USA."

Read more on gems and see cool pics? http://www.mineralszone.com/